From the parking area at the Sint-Bernardusplein in Nieuwpoort-aan-Zee head inland along the well-shaded Georges Rodenbachlaan and then Floribert Gheeraertlaan. At the T-intersection, turn right and follow signs for bike path 66. More towering trees shade the way, and the only noise comes from farmers out in their fields.

The road soon comes out of the wood into a residential area, passing the immaculate gardens of Ter Duinen on the left. At the busy intersection, make a quick left and then right, still following route 66.

Here you’ll find clusters of the red-stucco houses that are so typical of the Flemish coast. Stick with path 66 as the sand dunes make their first appearance on the right. The path continues to wind and then switches to 65, crossing the dunes at a low-point.

Fortunately there is a paved path that lets bikers explore this unique stretch of nature – turn left here, and follow the trail through the dunes. Donkeys, of all things, mill about on the sand, nibbling on the sprouting grasses. The path begins rising and falling through an area of more typical red-roofed Flemish houses, though these, on a hilltop, must offer great views of the sea.

Stick with path 65; when entering into the town of Koksijde, follow signs for route 1 to De Panne. On the way out of town, the road is a little busy, but soon enough the path breaks off to the right onto a small, quiet lane.

At the next major road, at the intersection with the windmill to the left, make another quick right and left, sticking with path 1 all the while.

The next residential stretch boasts a remarkable diversity of flowers, both along the houses and in the public spaces. Eventually the path curves out towards the coast, and when you reach the road with the tram tracks, the sea rumbling on the far side, follow the road along the raised dirt path to the left for the rest of the way into De Panne.

Here you can either head right to the sea or continue along path number 1 into downtown De Panne and its central square, or even on farther to the last stop on the coast tram – and the train station for a ride home.

Distance: 15 kilometres

Difficulty: Easy

Time: One hour